Yes, I really did just suggest that you can be your own Valentine. Did you roll your eyes? If you did, I understand. Maybe you are thinking Valentine's Day is only for couples who are deeply in love, sharing boxes of chocolates, beautiful cards, candlelit dinners and their favorite songs. It is like a fairy tale.

This romantic daydream of February 14th is fueled by things we hear, read, and see about what makes a perfect Valentine's Day. Yet, the notion of having to be part of a couple to celebrate and enjoy Valentine's Day is like eating stale pastel-colored candy hearts. Yuck! Valentine’s Day and not being part of a couple doesn’t have to be yucky. It can be a day about you. Let’s think of this idea of being our own Valentine in the terms of Me, Myself and I.

Me — You shouldn’t in any way, shape or form, feel bad if you are single. You might not yet have dating privileges. Don’t worry, they will come. You might also not be interested in dating, haven’t found the right person to date, or you might be too busy between school, outside activities, or work to juggle a dating schedule. You also might be in a relationship, but there is no way the two of you can get together for Valentine’s Day this year. All these reasons are perfectly okay.

Myself — If you wish, you definitely may enjoy all of the hearts, chocolates, and Valentine’s Day festivities. Don’t have the Happy Heart Day Humdrums. Be a rebel and celebrate the day your way. If you are not into candy, enjoy your favorite foods. Buy yourself a fun gift — it doesn’t have to be anything cutesy or it can be, it’s your choice. Get together with your friends or family and have a special dinner and dessert. Also, don’t be afraid to give cards. Yes, you might have done this when you were younger, but it’s also okay to do it now. Use your creativity and make cards for your friends and family. You are sharing a part of yourself, so make them funny, thoughtful or quirky.

I — Remember, you are likable and lovable! Try saying this out loud, “I don’t have to be part of a couple to be happy because I am happy being who I am and doing what I enjoy, on Valentine’s Day or any other day. I am likable and I am lovable, inside and outside of any and all relationships I choose to have.”

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Let me know what your plans are for Valentine’s Day. Visit the Teen Site Forum to leave a comment or ask a question.